Vitamin K may tackle osteoporosis

Poor dietary intake of vitamin K has also been associated with fractures.

London - Vitamin K supplements may be a new way to tackle osteoporosis.

About 150 women are taking part in a trial where they will receive a form of the vitamin. The nutrient is thought to be important for bone health because it triggers the release of enzymes crucial for bone formation.

Poor dietary intake of vitamin K has also been associated with fractures.

The vitamin occurs in a number of forms: vitamin K1 is the major dietary form, found in green leafy vegetables, while vitamin MK is produced by bacteria in the body. One form of vitamin MK (known as MK4) helps preserve bone density and strength.

In an 18-month trial at Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, patients with low vitamin K levels will be given either vitamin K1 or MK4 in addition to their existing medication. They will then be examined every three months and monitored for changes in bone density in the lower spine, hip and forearm. - Daily Mail